By Palma Ileye
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has made a case for enhanced trade relations between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates, UAE, with emphasis on solid minerals.
Speaking while receiving in audience the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Salem Shaeed Al Shamsi, in his office, Alake reflected on the historical significance of the over 50-year robust relationship between the two nations emphasising the need to deepen these ties through expanded trade in the mining sector.
In a press release issued by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the Minister stated that, “In the mining sector, we see significant opportunities for collaboration. While there is considerable trade in gold, much of it remains illegal, with a large portion of Nigerian gold ending up in the UAE unlawfully. We propose working together to develop strategies to curb illegal gold trade and establish a regulatory framework that legitimizes this trade, allowing both countries to maximize their benefits.”
He highlighted Nigeria’s wealth of globally sought-after minerals and noted that the UAE, as a major hub for mineral trade, stands to gain from a strengthened partnership in the mining sector.
He also expressed interest in partnering with the UAE on technology transfer to advance Nigeria’s mining sector.
In his remarks, Ambassador Al Shamsi affirmed the UAE’s commitment to reinforcing its longstanding relationship with Nigeria, citing the recent resolution of visa restrictions and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, MOU, between UAE companies and Nigeria via the Solid Minerals Development Fund, SMDF.
“The lifting of visa application restrictions and the launch of a new visa application website demonstrate my country’s dedication to advancing bilateral relations,” Ambassador Al Shamsi asserted.
